Meerut, India

Capital City

Living in Meerut is a trade-off - the city's urban growth has brought new opportunities, but also persistent headaches like bureaucracy. With a population of around 1.31 million, Meerut is the second-fastest growing city in Uttar Pradesh after Noida and Ghaziabad. While the infrastructure is booming, with new expressways and a planned metro system, the climate can be a challenge, with scorching summers reaching up to 49°C. And safety is an ongoing concern, with the city having a history of communal violence. Overall, Meerut may appeal to those seeking industry and development, but the bureaucratic tangles and climate can be a tough sell.